Goldendoodles are a popular designer breed, combining the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. Because of their fluffy, curly, super soft coats, Goldendoodles require regular grooming to keep their hair from becoming matted and tangled.
As with all dog breeds, you should be aware of your specific breed’s grooming requirements based on hair type and breed. Goldendoodles that are not clipped require regular brushing, sometimes more than once daily, if they have medium-length hair.
In this buying guide for the best Goldendoodle comb, we’ve rounded up the best combs to help keep your Goldendoodle tangle-free. The biggest grooming mistake when grooming the Goldendoodle is not using the slicker brush and comb to brush right down to the skin to avoid flat matting around the skin area. Instead, the slicker brush and comb are equally important when grooming the Goldendoodle and must be used in tandem.
How to use a slicker brush and comb?
Mats are painful for all dogs and often go unnoticed by pet parents who think they are brushing their Goldendoodle properly. The slicker brush must be used first with a comb afterward for coat maintenance.
You should always run the comb right down to the skin to ensure that not even a small mat exists. These will get bigger in size. The brush and comb need to be used equally and work in tandem.
The best comb for Goldendoodles is one with wide-set and narrow teeth that can easily remove tangles and mats. It should quickly move through the texture of their wavy coats.
The comb should be comfortable and not cause discomfort or pull on your Goldendoodle’s coat. We tend to prefer a stainless steel comb that’s durable and long-lasting. Metal combs also prevent static.
Finally, choosing a sturdy comb that won’t break when dealing with difficult tangles in your pup’s hair is essential. You can keep your Goldendoodle’s coat healthy and tangle-free with the right slicker brush, comb, and thorough grooming.
Ultimately the type of comb you choose will depend on your preferences and what works best for your Goldendoodle. Because the slicker brush is key to grooming the Goldendoodle, we’ll start with the best slicker and work through the best Goldendoodle combs.
In a rush? Here are the top picks:
- Pros
- Comb with a large and small dog comb
- Long pins for dog's with longer coats
- Extremely affordable compared to other combs
- Narrow spacing and wide spacing depending on the knot or tangle
- Easy to clean combs
- Cons
- There's no handle so it's not as ergonomic as a brush
The We Love Doodles dog grooming combs were specifically designed for doodle like Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, or Cockapoos. Their pins are longer than most other combs on the market so they can get deep into your dog’s coat.
Additionally, the comb comes in a kit at an affordable price of around $11. So you get one of the best large and small dog combs on the market at a great price. They are made of durable stainless steel and will help remove all mats and tangles from your Goldendoodle.
The combs also have a narrow-spaced side as well as a wider-spaced side. So if your Goldendoodle has thicker mats then you will want to use the wider space side. If you’re getting out a small tangle then you can easily use the narrow side.
Features
- Stainless Steel
- Longer pins
- Easily remove tangles and knots
- Pros
- Easy to use
- Brushes effectively
- Removes knots and tangles
- Gentle on the skin and coat when used correctly
- Long bent pins to prevent scratching or hurting
- Easy to clean
- Sustainable, fun packaging
- Cons
- Comb needed for the slicker brush kit
The We Love Doodles slicker brush was designed explicitly for Doodle breeds. It’s a professional dog grooming brush for all body parts in two sizes. It’s designed to work through dense and long coats efficiently and features an ergonomic handle for easier grooming.
The takeaway with this slicker brush is that it has soft pins measuring close to 1-inch-long each for deeper, gentler brushing. It also comes in two sizes to groom all body parts.
The We Love Doodles slicker brush features pins that are angled at approximately 45 degrees, so it won’t scratch your dog’s skin as you brush them head to tail. This is a veterinarian and groomer-approved dog slicker brush that is eco-friendly, comfortable, and effective.
Features
- Affordable
- Two sizes: small and large
- Designed for Doodles
- Pins angled at 45% for effective grooming
- 1-inch pins that reach deep into the coat
- Crafted with an eco-friendly wooden handle
- Pros
- Suitable for Goldendoodle coat
- Grounded and rounded teeth glide effortlessly through coats
- Easy to use
- Works through tangles and mats gently
- Durable
- A Chris Christensen pet grooming product
- Use to fluff furnishings and tails
- Perfect for line combing
- It can be used in all dog breeds
- Cons
- Pricier than most dog grooming combs, but worth it
The Chris Christensen Butter Comb is a handcrafted top-of-the-line grooming tool that comes in various styles to best fit your specific grooming needs. This comb features a solid brass core with steel teeth and an extremely smooth nickel chrome tip, making it perfect for use on any breed of dog.
The rounded corners will prevent friction and reduce breakage while the grounded and rounded teeth glide through the coat like butter. With this unique design, you won’t have to worry about the comb snagging hair because it glides through easily. This Goldendoodle comb has over 1,000 positive reviews and is a must-have for all Goldendoodle homes!
Features
- Steel teeth with highly finished tips
- Quality nickel chrome finish
- Gift worthy
- Does not snag hair
- Rounded corners prevent friction
- Made in Japan
- Over 1,000 positive reviews
- Pros
- Suitable for small and large areas
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Rustproof
- Lifetime guarantee
- Wide teeth good for knots and mats
- Dense teeth work easily by running smoothly through the fur
- Cons
- Some customers disliked the large spacing between teeth
This product has over 5,000 positive reviews. This dog de-matting tool can remove tangles, mats, and loose hair. Made of high-quality stainless steel, this comb is durable, corrosion-resistant, and will not fade. Rounded pin ends are gentle to the skin.
This comb grooms and massages for a healthy coat to prevent snagging and pet injury. You’ll get two combs that work well to remove both small & large areas, tangles, and knots. Large comb size: 7.4 x 1.65 IN, Small comb size: 6.
Features
- Two stainless steel combs
- Crafted with premium stainless steel
- Rounded and smooth tines
- Small and large comb for optimal grooming
- Affordable
- Over 5,000 positive reviews
- Pros
- Securely fitted into the no-slip handle
- It can be used on all pets
- Easy to hold and use
- Gentle and safe
- Lightweight at 2.08 ounces
- Easy to clean
- Lifetime guarantee
- Cons
- Some customers preferred an all-metal comb
We like this comb because it also has a free eBook about grooming. The round-toothed grooming comb is designed to be gentle on your Doodle’s skin while breaking up tangles and removing dirt, dander, and other allergens trapped beneath fur.
The takeaway with this comb is that it’s forged out of solid metal, and the teeth of the large dog comb withstand tugging when you’re trying to demat gently.
The non-slip grip prevents slippery accidents, while the rubberized handle ensures a comfortable grip. The dog and cat comb also includes a free eBook of helpful grooming tips. This product has over 7,700 positive reviews and is also priced affordably. Measurements for this comb are 7.3 x 1.8 x 0.4 inches.
Features
- Finished with a rubbery grip
- Non-slip coating
- Round and gentle stainless steel teeth
- Affordable
- Comes with free grooming eBook
- Pros
- Best when used together with the We Love Doodles slicker brush
- Easy to use
- Glides through coat
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Does not snag
- Easy to clean
- Suitable for long and short-haired dog breeds
- Lightweight at 3.21 ounces
- Cons
- Some may prefer an all-metal comb for Goldendoodles
This is another favorite among GoldenDoodle pet parents because it does a thorough job and is comfortable to use. This 2-in-1 detangler comb is perfect for quickly removing knots and mats from your pet’s fur, and its anti-slip handle grip ensures a safe, comfortable grooming experience.
The stainless steel teeth are tough enough to cut through even the toughest tangles. This comb features long and short teeth suitable for dematting, detangling, and a general comb through after a brush out. This product has over 8,800 positive reviews and is another must-have to add to your Goldendoodle grooming kit.
Features
- Stainless steel teeth
- Rust proof comb
- Comfortable anti-slip grip
- Over 8,800 positive reviews
- Extra durable construction
- Affordable
- Suitable for Goldendoodle coats
- Pros
- Allows for effortless combing
- Durable
- The anti-slip handle makes it easy to use
- Small and large combs for all body parts
- No wrist or hand strain
- No fur snagging
- Removes mats and tangles effectively without breaking
- Cons
- Some may prefer an all-metal comb for Goldendoodles
Hertzko is a trendy pet brand; most products are durable and functional. The Hertzko Goldendoodle dog grooming comb has close to 1,500 positive reviews and comes in a 2-pack: 5″ and 7″.
The combs feature rounded tips to help improve circulation and prevent snagging. These combs penetrate deep into the coat to remove tangles and mats and work with all types of coats, like flat, curly, and wavy.
Features
- Stainless steel
- Smooth rounds end for optimal grooming safety
- Close to 1,500 positive reviews
- Comfort grip handle
- Two pack: 5″ and 7″ for all body parts
- Suitable for Goldendoodle coat
- Affordable
- Option of slicker brush comb kit
- Pros
- Stainless steel pins
- Easy-to-hold grooming tools
- The comb is suitable for delicate body areas
- Won't rust or fade
- Anti-slip rubber handle
- Won't scratch pet's skin
- Over 2,000 positive reviews
- Cons
- Some may prefer an all-metal comb for Goldendoodles
The BRILLIRARE Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is the perfect grooming tool for your pet. It has a comfortable handle with anti-slip rubber and thumb rest, which gives you great control and grip. The 135° angled, stainless steel pins penetrate deep into the coat without scratching your pet’s skin.
The pins are also flexible to reach every part of your pet’s body. With this slicker brush, you can easily remove loose fur, undercoat, mats, and knots in just a few minutes.
This dog brush comes with a grooming comb with finely polished stainless-steel teeth, which can remove debris easily for cats and dogs with all coat types. It can be used as a grooming tool to comb hair around delicate areas. This product has over 2,000 positive reviews.
Features
- Best value pet product
- Ergonomic handle
- Three color options: yellow, green, and purple
- Affordable
- Slicker and comb set
- Self-cleaning button on slicker
- The comb works with all coat types
- Pros
- Elegant bronze color
- Functional and safe
- Suitable for all types of coats
- Great for trimming purposes
- Does not rust
- Comfortable to hold
- Easy to use
- Cons
- None
The We Love Doodles Dog Grooming Scissors Kit is a professional-grade dog grooming kit with a straight dog scissor, a curved dog scissor, a thinning dog scissor, and a dog comb.
The scissors do not rust, are made of high-quality stainless steel, have ergonomic handles for comfortable use, and are durable and long-lasting.
We like this kit for Goldendoodles because it’s functional, durable, and stylish. The dog grooming comb is a Doodle comb featuring wide and narrow teeth to eliminate tangles and mats quickly. It’s also easy for left-handed use and doesn’t dull quickly.
It’s also easy to use this comb down to the skin because it works well on Doodle coats. This is an excellent set at home for in-between Doodle grooming appointments. It saves you time and prevents matting that can occur right down by the skin surface.
Features
- Affordable
- Holiday gift worthy
- It comes in a stylish bronze Doodle case
- Stainless steel
- Does not rust
- Durable
- Sharp blades for trimming or cutting
ASPCA
A mat is a tangle of hair that becomes a tight knot. These require special attention and special grooming tools. A good matting comb can help to break up the knots and make it easier to brush out. ASPCA says, “Even very mild hair mats can cause skin irritation and progress to infected lesions. A wound left unattended can accumulate maggots.”
They add that fleas and ticks can live in the hair mat and can infest your dog without you even knowing about it. Additionally, mats around the rear end can “can cause an accumulation of feces and severe cases impede defecation.”
Worst of all, severe mats can cause strangulation wounds, and these are most often seen on a dog’s limb. “The mat can grow around the leg in a circumferential fashion causing the blood supply to be cut off. In severe but reversible cases, the mat cuts into and sometimes through the skin which can be surgically and medically treated over a long time typically weeks to months.” Some cases require amputation where the mat cuts off the blood supply on that limb.
Slicker
A slicker brush is also helpful but should be used cautiously because its metal bristles may cause pain if not used gently. If the mat is too tight and resistant to brushing, you can use a detangling spray or conditioner and a comb.
If you cannot get the mat out, you should visit your veterinarian or groomer to get it cut out humanely. This provides instant relief to your Goldendoodle. Regular brushing with the slicker brush spreads natural oils throughout the coat, removes dirt, and keeps the skin clean.
Comb
A comb is also helpful for separating the matted sections. For example, if the mat is particularly stubborn and won’t budge, it can be cut away with scissors or clippers.
It is important to never pull on a mat as this can cause breakage and pain for your pet. Lastly, ensure your pet has regular grooming sessions so that mats do not form in the first place.
Regular brushing and combing will help to prevent mats from forming and make for a much happier pet! Once your pet is mat-free, regular grooming and maintenance will help keep them that way. Brush your pet regularly (at least once a week) to remove dirt, dead fur, and dandruff.
Use a wide-toothed comb to reach the base of their fur and keep mats from forming as you brush. Some pet parents prefer a steel comb to work through the mat and then to go over it again with a finer slicker brush.
If your pet has long hair, consider taking them for professional grooming every few months. Professional groomers can trim away excess fur and help keep matted sections under control.
Keeping your pet well-groomed helps reduce the risk of mats forming while promoting a healthy coat. Try not to cut out heavy mats with scissors, but take your pup to the veterinarian. If the matting is severe, you’ll need to sedate your pet before being body clipped.
Detangler spray
If you find a mat in your Goldendoodle coat, you should first spray the coat with detangler spray or a leave-in conditioner. You should then try to comb it out by starting from the outer edge and working back in small sections toward the skin.
Once the tangle or mat is broken up, you should thoroughly comb out the area to check for any more matting and then go over the area with a slicker brush. Although this process requires a bit of work, it’s worth the effort, and your professional groomer will thank you for it.
Simple At-Home Goldendoodle Grooming Tips
If you groom your Goldendoodle regularly down to the skin, you can avoid matting and tangling in the coat. The key to thorough grooming is using high-quality grooming tools that are made well.
If your brush or comb is not ergonomic or balanced correctly, you’ll find it hard to groom. Your hands will hurt after a short time. You’ll also risk hurting your Goldendoodle. You’ll also need to learn how to properly use grooming tools like the slicker, dematting rake, and comb and educate yourself on coat care, nutrition, supplements, and behavior.
Timberidge Goldendoodles adds that your dog will need regular grooming at home regardless of whether you choose to use professional grooming. You should have all the necessary grooming brushes, thinning shears, products, and combs at home. They also found that products were significantly cheaper on Amazon.
How to brush a Goldendoodle?
Timberidge Goldendoodles also advises as to the two primary tools needed for a Goldendoodle: a slicker brush and comb. A slicker brush is used to fluff up your Doodle’s coat, whereas the comb will work best for curly-coated Doodles after using a slicker.
Timberidge Goldendoodles adds, “A metal comb works best for curly-coated doodles while a grooming rake may work well for wavier-coated doodles.
If you encounter a small mat, use a pair of thinning shears or blunt-tipped scissors to help remove it. You may also want to try a detangler. It’s easiest to untangle mats when they’re small.” Here’s a list of what you should have at home to groom your Goldendoodle:
If you visit your groomer and wonder why your Doodle has been clipped, it’s due to heavy matting, and it’s the only humane thing to do. That said, keeping on top of tangles and mats and combing down to the skin ensures that there are no flat mats on the skin surface. These are painful for your dogs when they walk and move and can cause severe skin infections.
We Love Doodles Slicker Brush for Doodles
Video credit: We Love Doodles
FAQ’s Best Comb for Goldendoodles
How often should Goldendoodles go to the groomer?
If your Goldendoodle is clipped, then every 6- 8 weeks for touch-ups. If you are keeping their coat more natural, then every few months. Be sure to brush your pup regularly and trim any excessively long fur that could become matted. This is typically a more economical approach than taking them to the groomer as often.
However, if you don’t have time or skills to do it yourself, then check with your groomer for their recommended schedule. Some groomers may suggest frequent trips to keep their fur in good shape, while others may be more lenient on the frequency of visits. Regular brushings and trimmings will help maintain the overall health of your pup’s coat and skin regardless of a groomer visit.
How much is professional grooming for a Goldendoodle?
Prices will vary based on the individual groomer and services you choose, so be sure to shop around for the best fit and value. If your Goldendoodle enjoys the swimming pool every so often, matting can become more of a problem and require more frequent visits.
All in all, the frequency of your Goldendoodle’s groomer trips will depend on the individual needs of your pup and how often you are willing to take them. In addition to grooming needs, good nutrition and exercise will help keep your pup’s coat looking its best.
What comb is best for Goldendoodles?
A high-quality metal dog grooming comb like the We Love Doodles bronze comb scissor set is perfect for Goldendoodles. This comb can help to break up mats without damaging their coat and is also ideal for removing dirt, dead fur, and dandruff. A slicker brush can also be helpful when used gently.
For stubborn mats, you may need scissors or clippers to trim them away carefully. Keep in mind that the comb must be used in tandem with the slicker brush for the Goldendoodle coat to remain healthy and tangle-free. It is important not to pull or tug on the fur when brushing, as this can cause breakage and discomfort for your pet.
What is the best brush or comb for the Goldendoodle?
The best brush is the We Love Doodles slicker brush for Doodles. This brush is designed explicitly for Goldendoodles and features gentle metal bristles on the coat while working through tangles. This slicker brush helps to remove dirt, dead fur, and dandruff without causing pain or damage to their fur.
If a mat has formed, you may need to use a matting comb with the slicker brush. Matting combs are specifically designed to work through matted fur, but they should be used carefully and gently. If mats persist, a pair of scissors or clippers may be necessary to cut them away painfully.
Always make sure your Goldendoodle is comfortable with the grooming process before continuing. Proper brushing and combing are essential to keep your Goldendoodle’s coat healthy and tangle-free. With regular maintenance, your doggo can look their best!
How often should you brush a Goldendoodle?
Video credit: Kelly the Groomer
Final thoughts
Combs are necessary for grooming Goldendoodles because their unique coat is prone to matting. Regular brushing with a slicker brush can help prevent the mats from forming and keep your Goldendoodle’s fur healthy and beautiful.
If mats do form, use a detangling spray or conditioner and brush them out with a matting comb. For particularly stubborn mats, scissors or clippers may be necessary.
Professional grooming sessions every few months can also help to keep their coat looking its best. A high-quality diet and plenty of exercise will support your Goldendoodle’s overall health and reduce the risk of matting. With some dedication and effort, you can keep your Goldendoodle happy and mat-free!
Claudia Bensimoun is a writer who specializes in dog content and veterinary topics! Aside from writing for We Love Doodles, Claudia also writes for other major dog blogs like Fido Friendly, Animal Wellness Magazine, and the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA). She has a ghostwritten over 50 different dog e-books. Her passions include animal welfare, veterinary research, and wildlife conservation.
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